Elon Musk Expresses Regret Over Criticism of Donald Trump
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk publicly expressed regret on Wednesday for some of his recent social media attacks on former President Donald Trump, signaling a potential softening in tensions after their very public falling-out.
“I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far,” Musk wrote on X, his social media platform.
Tensions Sparked by Spending Bill Dispute
Their conflict began last week when Musk criticized a controversial Republican-backed spending bill, referring to it as an “abomination.” The bill, which is currently under consideration in Congress, drew sharp reactions across the political spectrum. Musk’s criticism angered Trump, especially as some lawmakers had reportedly encouraged the tech mogul to fund primary challenges against Republicans who supported the bill.
In response, Trump warned Musk of “serious consequences” if he followed through. Speaking to NBC News, the former president also labeled Musk “disrespectful” and made it clear he had no intention of reconciling, stating, “I have no desire to speak to him.”
From Allies to Adversaries
Just weeks earlier, Musk and Trump had appeared to part ways on good terms, with Trump praising Musk’s departure from a government efficiency advisory role. However, their relationship quickly deteriorated after Musk ramped up his criticism, claiming the bill could define Trump’s potential second term in office.
Trump retaliated in a strongly worded statement from the Oval Office, taking aim at Musk’s influence and past support. “Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we will anymore. I was surprised,” he told reporters.
Musk Claims Key Role in Trump’s 2024 Victory
Musk, one of the GOP’s biggest donors during the 2024 campaign, also took credit for the Republican win, posting: “Without me, Trump would have lost the election. Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate… Such ingratitude.”
Trump later responded via Truth Social, suggesting that terminating federal subsidies and contracts with Musk’s companies would be a straightforward way to save taxpayer money. U.S. media outlets have estimated those contracts to be worth around $18 billion.
Allegations and Apologies
The feud escalated when Musk posted—then deleted—a claim linking Trump to unreleased files involving disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Musk alleged the former president appeared in confidential government documents connected to Epstein’s case. While Trump was named in legal filings unsealed earlier in 2024, he has not been accused of any wrongdoing.
The post triggered significant backlash, prompting Musk to walk back his statements and prompting Trump to cool his tone. On Friday, Trump said, “I just wish him well,” to which Musk replied simply on X: “Likewise.”
#Global News
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